New Haven

Pumpkin Festivals and Jack-O-Lantern Displays for New England Families

Submitted by Tara D on Sun, 09/15/2019 - 8:00pm

New England is brimming with fall festivals, but kids are particularly enamored with events celebrating the humble pumpkin: the symbol of autumn and Halloween. Whether you stick close to home or make a day or weekend trip out of it, going to a pumpkin festival or visiting a glowing jack-o'-lantern display is a fun, family-friendly way to get into the spirit of the season. Here's a sampling of pumpkin fun in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine over the next month. Get inspired for a trip to the pumpkin patch for a jack-o'-lantern display on your own front porch!

Best Hayrides Across Connecticut for Kids and Families

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Fri, 09/13/2019 - 10:00am

Like apple picking and pumpkin hunting, hayrides are a seasonal ritual for many Connecticut families and one of our favorite fall things to do. The state's many farms that offer hayrides or wagon rides usually offer other fun activities, like corn mazes and cider making. For more ideas on how to enjoy autumn splendor in southern New England, check out the Mommy Poppins Fall Fun Guide.

Corn Mazes in Connecticut with Fun Activities for Kids and Families

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Fri, 09/06/2019 - 12:21pm

The perfect balance of fun and challenge for kids, corn mazes are a fall tradition for many Connecticut families. No matter what part of the state you live in, you likely have the opportunity for a corn-mazing adventure. These farms feature not just mazes, but extra activities like hay rides and animal petting areas. So, put your sneakers and thinking caps on, and get out there! For more autumnal outings, see our post on Things to Do This Fall in Connecticut, including papple picking spots, fall festivals and fairs, and pumpkin patches.

End of Summer Checklist: 30Things To Do in Connecticut with Kids Before School Starts

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sun, 08/04/2019 - 6:00pm

Before beach towels get stored away for another season and late summer nights are replaced by bedtime curfews, there's still plenty of time to embrace late-summer fun with Connecticut kids. Here are our favorite things to close out the summer vacation season as a family. Don't forget to check our list of must-do August activities, free August fun, and events calendar for even more ideas for making the most of summer's end.

August GoList: The Best Things To Do With Connecticut Kids This Month

Submitted by Mary Beth Lawlor on Sun, 07/28/2019 - 5:00pm

With school looming, we all know that August is the time to pull out all the stops for summertime fun. We've curated a list of more than 30 of our favorite things to do with kids and families in Connecticut this month. Pick among fairs, festivals, carnivals, and even a sunflower maze to keep kids busy and entertained all August long.

Fun Boat Rides for Connecticut Kids and Families

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 07/21/2019 - 5:00pm

As close to a shoreline as most Connecticut families are, a fun boat ride with kids can make for a perfect day trip. Whether you’re looking for a scenic ferry cruise, an interactive sailboat adventure, or an educational marine experience, there's a boat ride to suit every kid who's looking to get out on the river or sea this summer.

We have rounded up some of the best tours and interactive sailing adventures across the state. For more fun on the water, be sure to check out our Connecticut Beaches and Water Fun Guide and the best places for canoeing and kayaking with kids in Connecticut.

New Haven with Kids: 25 Fun Things to do for Families

Submitted by Tara D on Fri, 07/19/2019 - 11:58am

Known as the birthplace of American pizza, the city of New Haven is a foodie destination fit for kids. Home to Yale University (and its amazing natural science museum), it's also a coastal city rich with history, architecture, arts, and culture that kids can appreciate. Best of all for families, it's wonderfully walkable. Take the kids for a day trip or a weekend getaway and experience New Haven for yourselves, with this list as your guide.

Connecticut Farms with Homemade Ice Cream and Fun Activities for Kids and Families

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Sun, 07/14/2019 - 12:00pm

After a long, hot day at a Connecticut beach, pool, or summer camp, there's no better treat than creamy, cold ice cream. And best yet is homemade ice cream served at one of Connecticut's local farms. While some farms are best for picking berries, peaches, and other summer produce, others are even more famous for their delectable dairy products. Check out these family-friendly farms that offer delicious ice cream as well as rolling green hills, fields, and even animals to check out before or after your treat.

Summer Day Trips in Connecticut for Families that are Fun for Kids

Submitted by Anna Fader on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 3:00pm

When you live in Connecticut and within a short drive of great beaches, state parks, and amuseument park rides, every summer weekend is an opportunity for a quick, easy family day trip with kids. Here, we've collected some outings that Connecticut kids will love, grouped by area so you can easily double up on attractions and create your own itinerary. Click through each link for more information and inspiration, whether you are looking to explore natural beauty, expand knowledge, or scream with delight on a water slide or roller coaster. Find even more summer activities in our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide.

12 Amazing Playgrounds Worth Driving to Across Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Fri, 04/19/2019 - 8:14pm

Now that we have had a few 60 degree days on the books, it's time to pull out the water bottles and pile the kids in the car to hit some of the best playgrounds in Connecticut. All of these playgrounds are unique, fun, and are less than a 45-minute drive away from anywhere in the state. Also, don't forget to check out some of our favorite neighborhood playgrounds in the Hartford and Fairfield areas.